The Everton star impressively filled the void left by Chelsea's Cole in the recent World Cup qualifying wins over Montenegro and Poland but that does not necessarily mean he now has dibs on starting every Three Lions game.

"That would be harsh on Ashley Cole, who's still a fantastic player," said Hodgson.

"He was injured and it would have been a tough decision for me had he been there because I have such respect and admiration for both players. But Leighton is of the very highest level and it's going to be a battle between those two to get the shirt.

"I'm lucky to have such good players but I'm not prepared to say this one is the undoubted no 1."